An Engaging Game of Hearts: A Review of Every Tom, Dick & Harry by Elinor Lipman
I have to confess, the title Every Tom, Dick & Harry had me hooked before I even cracked open the cover. Elinor Lipman’s blend of humor and contemporary romance has always intrigued me, and I was eager to dive into her latest offering. Set against the charming backdrop of small-town Massachusetts, this novel promised a delightful mix of quirky characters, family dynamics, and a bit of matchmaking mayhem. Spoiler alert: It delivered on all fronts.
At the heart of this story are three tricenarians taking over a family business—an estate sale company—and dealing with all that comes with it, from peculiar clients to heartfelt revelations. The plot unfolds in the quaintly named Buzzards Bay, where we meet an eclectic cast of characters: think retired teachers, matchmaking dog owners, and the occasional suspicious chief of police. Lipman does an incredible job of weaving their lives together, touching on themes of love, loss, and the sweet chaos of community.
What I especially adored about Every Tom, Dick & Harry was its pacing. The short chapters with abrupt endings kept me turning the pages, often laughing out loud before realizing the next chapter was only a swipe away. Piper Goodeve’s narration added another layer of charm, her voice a perfect match for Lipman’s witty dialogue. However, I will admit that there were moments—particularly around the 45% mark—when I felt my attention wavering. The narrative had a brief lull that almost made me second guess my enthusiasm.
Yet, Lipman contrasts humor with moments that echo the style of literary fiction, a twist I found both intriguing and slightly jarring. Just when I thought the book leaned heavily into romance, it would pivot to a poignant reflection reminiscent of Emily Dickinson or Maya Angelou. This unique flavor added depth but wasn’t always what I was in the mood for. Thankfully, the humor returned quickly enough to keep my spirits high.
One of the standout aspects of the book is its seamless incorporation of music—from Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight” to Lady Gaga’s “Poker Face.” These songs not only anchored the story but evoked vivid imagery and nostalgia, amplifying the emotional weight of pivotal moments. The musical allusions subtly underscored the themes of love and resilience, making the experience even richer.
As for the characters, I found them beautifully relatable. Whether it was the widower grappling with new feelings or the divorcée rediscovering herself amid faded family heirlooms, each person’s journey resonated with authenticity. Their misadventures had me reflecting on my own relationships and life choices, a hallmark of Lipman’s skillful storytelling.
In conclusion, Every Tom, Dick & Harry is a delightful exploration of life’s messiness, where love and laughter coexist. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted rom-com with a touch of realism. While it may occasionally flirt with the tone of literary fiction, it ultimately invites everyone to find humor in the mundane and hope in unexpected places. Grab your coffee, snuggle into your favorite reading nook, and prepare for a delightful adventure in the charming world of Lipman’s creation!